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Health Conditions That Often Go Misdiagnosed In Women

Healthcare is not always the same for men and women. They might experience it differently.

Written by Kashish Sharma | Updated : April 18, 2023 12:04 AM IST

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The Differences

The healthcare system is not the same for men and women. Studies have shown that the two might experience it differently. Study trials not inclusive of women and societal stereotypes have resulted in bringing women at a disadvantage where they might experience misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis for a few conditions. The following are a few examples.

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Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a painful condition that often sees a misdiagnosis among women. The condition occurs when the endometrial starts to grow outside the uterus. Gender stereotyping is one such force that might prevent this condition to be diagnosed earlier as it is often dismissed as painful periods. The diversity of symptoms women experience might also contribute to the timely diagnosis of the condition. Also Read - Instead Of A Hard 'No', Know Why It Is Better To Explain Things To A Child

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Pain Bias

As per studies, women wait longer in emergency rooms to get treatment for pain and are less likely to be offered effective painkillers for the same. As per studies, their pain is likely to be taken less seriously than that of men. Some studies have also shown that they are more likely to be offered anti-anxiety medications for pain and their symptoms might be written off as psychological.

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ADHD

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects both boys and girls. However, girls struggle to receive a timely diagnosis. As per studies, parents are more likely to downplay girls’ hyperactivity and impulsive symptoms than boys. Studies show that much like girls might be able to mask their symptoms of autism, a similar thing could be happening here. Also Read - Vitamin B12-Rich Diet Can Help Boost Metabolic Rate: 5 Foods You Must Take Everyday

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Heart Diseases

Heart attack is one of the leading causes of death among men and women but studies have shown that women are more likely than men to dismiss the warning signs of an impending attack. The reason behind this is that many times women might not exhibit the stereotypical symptoms of heart attack and might see subtle signs such as fatigue, shortness of breath, cold sweats and not typically chest pains. Many women see a delayed diagnosis for this reason.